Big changes are taking off for travelers in 2025! Whether you’re planning a quick domestic getaway or an international vacation, it’s important to understand the new travel regulations going into effect this year. Here’s your go-to guide for staying informed and prepared.

🗓️ REAL ID Becomes Mandatory on May 7, 2025

Starting May 7, 2025, all travelers aged 18 and over must present a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or ID to board domestic flights within the U.S.

✅ What Is a REAL ID?

A REAL ID is a federally approved identification card or driver’s license that features a star in the upper-right corner. It’s part of a post-9/11 security measure to strengthen ID verification for air travel.

📋 How to Get a REAL ID

Visit your local DMV with the following:

• Full legal name and birthdate
• Social Security number
• Two proofs of current address
• Legal presence/lawful status documentation

🕒 Pro Tip: DMV wait times are long—apply early!

🛂 Don’t Have a REAL ID Yet? These Will Also Work:

• U.S. Passport or Passport Card
• Global Entry, NEXUS, SENTRI, or FAST trusted traveler cards
• State-issued Enhanced Driver’s License (EDL)
• Permanent Resident Card or DHS-issued documents

🔗 View the full list here: tsa.gov/travel/security-screening/identification

🌍 International Travel Requirements Are Changing Too

🇬🇧 UK ETA – Effective January 8, 2025

Travelers heading to the United Kingdom will need to apply for an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) before departure. The process is fully digital and designed to speed up immigration checks.

🇪🇺 ETIAS for Europe – Expected May 2025

Planning a trip to Europe? The European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) will be required for U.S. citizens visiting most EU countries. Like the UK’s ETA, it’s a quick pre-travel registration that ensures smoother entry.

✅ Your 2025 Travel Checklist

📌 Apply for a REAL ID well before May
📌 Renew your passport (make sure it’s valid for 6+ months)
📌 Apply online for ETA (UK) or ETIAS (EU) if traveling abroad
📌 Keep up to date with the latest TSA and airline policies

🧳 Final Boarding Call

The skies are open, but the rules are changing. Don’t get caught off guard at the gate—take care of your documentation now so your 2025 travel plans go off without a hitch. ✈️🌍

Sources:
🔹 TSA.gov
🔹 USA.gov/REAL-ID
🔹 ABC News
🔹 New York Post